Introducer Anchoring Clip With Releasable Position Lock

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing introducer fixation methods for medical devices during surgical procedures are inadequate, as they either require manual holding, which is tiring and exposes operators to radiation, or involve suturing, which does not allow for position adjustments and poses additional risks.

Innovation Solution

A fixation device with a support, linkage assembly, and introducer receiving bracket that allows for adjustable and secure positioning of the introducer using a deformable sleeve and inflation system, enabling easy repositioning without additional patient risk.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual holding of the introducer is used, then the operator can maintain control of the introducer position, but the operator experiences fatigue and exposure to radiation throughout the procedure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveintroducer position controlVSAvoidoperator radiation exposure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A fixation device acts as an intermediary between the introducer and the patient's body. The device includes a support element that contacts the patient's skin and a fixation element that secures the introducer to the support element, allowing the introducer to be held in position without requiring the operator to manually hold it during X-ray imaging.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If sutures are used to fix the introducer, then the introducer position is secured, but the position cannot be adjusted and additional sutures are required on the patient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveintroducer position stabilityVSAvoidposition adjustability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation device employs a dynamic fixation mechanism where the fixation element can be adjusted between different positions. The device allows the introducer to be secured in a fixed position for stability, yet can be repositioned if needed during the procedure, providing both reliability and adaptability without requiring additional sutures on the patient.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the introducer is left mobile during the procedure, then position adjustments are easy, but the introducer may be dislodged causing bleeding or incorrect positioning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition adjustabilityVSAvoidintroducer position stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The fixation device serves as a secure intermediary attachment point between the introducer and the patient's body. The support element is anchored to the patient while the fixation element securely holds the introducer, providing stable fixation that prevents dislodgement and bleeding, yet allows for controlled position adjustments when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The device maintains the introducer in a fixed position while allowing for adjustments during the procedure, minimizing patient and operator risks, and reducing the need for sutures.

Implementation Method 1

a deformable sleeve (66) constricting on the introducer (12) to secure the introducer (12) in position in the bracket (16)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

an inflation system for the deformable sleeve (66) enabling easy repositioning of the introducer (12)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGas pressure: Pressurisation

Data Source

PatentEP4221799B1Device for attaching an introducer of a medical device in the human body

Publication Date: 2026.01.07 UNIVERSITY OF STRASBOURG

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AI summary

This anchoring device (10) comprises: - a support (14) intended to be held on the patient; - a connecting assembly (18) mounted on the support (14); - a clip (16) for holding the introducer (12), which clip is fixed to the connecting assembly (18), the clip (16) defining a central passage (60) extending along a longitudinal axis (B) and a longitudinal opening (62) for inserting the introducer (12); and - a retention system (20) for holding the introducer (12) in place in the clip (16). The retention system (20) comprises at least one pad (88) for reversibly immobilizing the introducer (12), the retention system (20) being able to transition from a released configuration to a configuration in which the introducer (12) is locked in position.